AUTO RED BOOK REVIEW: 2011 HYUNDAI CURB CONCEPT

 

On The Cover Review: 2011 Hyundai Curb Concept

Continuing the trend of making a vehicle less about the vehicle and more about personal communication technologies, Hyundai brings us the Curb Concept.  Back in the dark ages, America’s coming of age motorists pined for barbaric indulgences such as horsepower and rugged looks.  Nowadays, being able to connect to Facebook or other social media takes priority.  Hyundai’s Blue Link technology takes care of that, while passengers can watch video monitors or enjoy some customized tunes on their Pandora Radio stations.  And no need to strain one’s wrist on a door handle, everything is electronic and touch activated.  The Curb is based on a shortened version of the Hyundai Tucson platform, and is powered by a 175-hp, turbocharged 1.6-liter inline four-banger.  That’s just about enough power to transport this rolling smart phone back and forth from afterschool activities.